A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Bucharest vs. Edinburgh for Attractions, Old Town, Backpackers, and Nightlife

Should you visit Bucharest or Edinburgh?

Which is cheaper to visit? Which is more expensive for vacation?

Which city should you visit? Read on to compare the activities as well as the prices of travel for Bucharest and Edinburgh. We'll break down costs for accommodation, food, transportation and more to help you learn more about these two destinations. Then, you can figure out if either of these two places are accessible based on your travel budget, schedule, and interests. So, let's dig into it.

Bucharest

Bucharest is a less touristy, undiscovered, and cultural city. It's a large city, so you'll find plenty of things to do around town. Visitors also love the food, shopping, and museums.

Edinburgh

Edinburgh is a charming, character-filled, and vibrant city. It's a large city, so you'll find plenty of things to do around town. The beauty of this spot is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. It also has a unique and quaint vibe that attracts lots of visitors. And you can't forget about the live music, shopping, and museums.

Bucharest and Edinburgh: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Bucharest or Edinburgh?

Travelers will generally find more things to do in Edinburgh than Bucharest. While Bucharest is larger than Edinburgh, Edinburgh has more sights and attractions for tourists. Edinburgh is better known for its museums, theatre productions, nightlife, music, historical sights, shopping, impressive beauty, and quaint atmosphere, while Bucharest is more popular for its food. Edinburgh is more touristy than Bucharest and is popular for its medieval Old Town, the Royal Mile, and its influence on the Harry Potter series. Also, Edinburgh is famous for The Edinburgh Castle. Bucharest is well known for its wide avenues and longstanding religious institutions.

How is Bucharest different from Edinburgh?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Edinburgh and Bucharest. Then, you can decide for yourself which place is better for your next trip.

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Bucharest or Edinburgh?

Edinburgh is renowned for its museums and landmarks. Also, Bucharest is still popular, but not quite as popular for its historical sights.

The museums, monuments, and landmarks in Edinburgh are among the most recognizable in the world. The most famous sights include the Edinburgh Castle, the Palace of Holyroodhouse, and the National Museum of Scotland. There are also kid-friendly museums like Camera Obscura.

If you're looking for an educational opportunity, there are a decent number of museums and historical sights around Bucharest. The city is rich in landmarks and historical buildings. Popular sights include the Romanian Athenaeum, the Palace of the Parliament, Stavropoleos Church, and Curtea Veche.

Is Bucharest or Edinburgh Better for Theater?

Edinburgh is well known for its theatre productions. However, Bucharest is not a theatre destination.

Edinburgh offers many theater and performance venues for visitors. It's fun to see a live performance or attend one of the festivals in town.

Bucharest is not a theatre destination.

Is the Food Better in Bucharest or Edinburgh? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Bucharest is a city with good options for its restaurants. However, Edinburgh is lacking in good options for its restaurant scene.

Bucharest has a delicious restaurant scene that relies on local flavors. Many Romanian recipes have been passed down through the generations and they still use traditional flavors. You'll see some German or Hungarian influences, but the flavors are still uniquely Romanian. Popular dishes include ciorba (tripe soup), cabbage rolls, and mici (grilled meat rolls).

Edinburgh may not make the list for most foodies, but you'll find what you need while you're in town. The city has some unique but famous dishes to try including haggis and black pudding. For slightly less intimidating options, check out the cullen skink, porridge, or smoked salmon. There are many fish and chips shops to choose from as well as a diversity of ethnic restaurants including Indian, Thai, and Ethiopian.

Is Bucharest or Edinburgh Better for Nightlife?

Edinburgh is well known for nightlife and partying. Also, Bucharest is still popular, but not quite as popular for its evening party scene.

Edinburgh is a popular destination for visitors looking to party into the night. With so many students, the nightlife stays very active. There are a wide range of bars and clubs to choose from as well as some of the country's oldest pubs. Tourists tend to frequent the Old Town area, but you'll find more locals if you head to the student and university areas.

If you're looking for night time activities Bucharest has a few options to choose from. The city has come to life with its party scene, with many bars and clubs that you can choose from. There are rooftop bars, chic dance clubs, and cozy pubs where you can pass the evening. You'll find most of the upscale clubs in the northern part of the city, with a more casual scene found in the downtown areas around Universitate and Romanā.

Is Bucharest or Edinburgh Better for Music?

Edinburgh is renowned for its live music scene. However, Bucharest is not a live music destination.

Live music, and music in many other forms, is everyone in Edinburgh In addition to a wide range of live music venues, there are also a number of music festivals held in town.

Bucharest is not a live music destination.

Is Bucharest or Edinburgh Better for its Old Town?

Edinburgh is renowned for its old town. Also, Bucharest is still popular, but not quite as popular for its historic old town charm.

The old town of Edinburgh is one of the most recognized in the world. The city's Old Town attracts international visitors who come to see the Edinburgh Castle, the quaint streets, and the many shops and cafes. The Royal Mile is a popular area with pubs and souvenir shops. It connects the castle to the Scottish Parliament.

Bucharest has an old town worth visiting. The old town dates back to the 15th and 16th centuries, with much of the historical charm seen in the architecture. Many of the buildings have been restored, but others are still awaiting repairs. This gives the area a sense of authenticity that you often miss in other old towns.

Is the Shopping Better in Bucharest or Edinburgh?

Edinburgh is well known for its shopping opportunities. Also, Bucharest is still popular, but not quite as popular for its shopping areas.

Edinburgh is a popular shopping destination with plenty of stores. Head to Princes Street in the New Town to visit department stores and other name brand shops. Nearby George Street has more boutique style shops and less crowds. In the Old Town, Victoria Street is filled with Harry Potter shops and tourist stores where you can pick up a kilt or Edinburgh sweatshirt.

Bucharest has a variety of shopping areas worth visiting. The residents love fashion, and you'll find many shopping centers around town where you can find a good deal. In addition to the many malls, there are also antique shops, flea markets and boutique clothing stores where you might find a hidden gem.

Is Bucharest or Edinburgh Better for Families?

Edinburgh is well known for its family-friendly activities. However, Bucharest is not particularly known for its kid-friendly activities.

Edinburgh is a very kid-friendly city. Kids will enjoy wandering down Victoria Street and popping in the Harry Potter shops. There are also a number of fascinating Harry Potter tours that take you through notable landmarks where J.K. Rowling was inspired to write these popular stories. You'll even visit Tom Riddle's gravesite. Other highlights that families will enjoy include Edinburgh Castle and the Edinburgh Dungeon, which is best for older kids or kids that enjoy a good scare. Younger kids will enjoy a trip the illusions museum, Camera Obscura, which also offers one of the best views of the city.

For families, Bucharest is not always the best place to visit. Kid-friendly activities include kid's play areas, museums such as the Museum of the Senses, and water centered activities like rowing in the park or visiting the wellness center Therme.

Is Bucharest or Edinburgh Better for Couples?

Edinburgh is well known for its romantic activities. However, Bucharest is not particularly known for couples.

Couples visit Edinburgh frequently as it offers plenty of romantic activities. With its castle and the Royal Mile, there are many romantic places to explore as a couple. There are also good restaurants and some nice hotels. Whether you're interested in history, food, or fun, this city makes for a great couples trip.

Bucharest is not always the best place to visit for a couple. The city has some romantic settings such as wandering down Victory Avenue or exploring the historic Cotroceni Neighbourhood. There are also several gardens and a number of nice cafes to explore.

Is Bucharest or Edinburgh Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Edinburgh is renowned for backpackers. Also, Bucharest is still popular, but not quite as popular for backpackers and budget travelers.

Backpackers and budget travelers come from all over the world to visit Edinburgh. The city has some good hostels and an active nightlife, so it's not hard to find other travelers to hang out with. It's a well visited city with many areas that attracted younger travelers or students.

Plenty of budget travelers visit Bucharest. The city is affordable, but it's often overlooked by backpackers. Part of the charm for many is the sense of authenticity that can often be hard to find in travel these days.

Is Bucharest or Edinburgh Better for Students?

Edinburgh is well known for students. However, Bucharest is not popular with students.

Many students visit Edinburgh. This multicultural city is popular with international students because of its excellent research and academic centers as well as its unique history.

Bucharest is not popular with students.

Is Bucharest or Edinburgh Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Bucharest is a very popular place for times when you don't have a car. Also, Edinburgh is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its public transit.

Public transit in Bucharest can get you to some places easily. Public transit options include trams, buses, and trolley buses.

You'll find some public transit in Edinburgh, but it may not be enough to take you everywhere. Buses are the best way to get into town from the outer edges if you don't have a car.

Is Bucharest or Edinburgh a more walkable city?

Edinburgh is renowned for its high level of walkability. Also, Bucharest is still popular, but not quite as popular for its ease of walking around.

Getting around Edinburgh on foot is easy. The Old Town in particular is fun to walk around

Bucharest is a somewhat walkable city. Many of the tourist attractions are within a walkable area.

For even more information, also check out Is Bucharest Worth Visiting? and Is Edinburgh Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Edinburgh or Bucharest?

How long in Bucharest or Edinburgh?

In either Bucharest or Edinburgh, you'll find plenty of activities to fill your time. Most visitors tend to spend more time in Edinburgh than Bucharest because of the overall number of sights and activities. Usually, 1-3 days is a good amount of time for Bucharest, and 2-5 days is enough time in Edinburgh.

Families should spend more time in Edinburgh than Bucharest. Because of the many family-friendly attractions and fun things to do for kids in Edinburgh, it's a great place to visit with the whole family.

Couples should spend more time in Edinburgh than Bucharest. You'll find plenty of romantic sights and fun activities in Edinburgh that are perfect for a weekend getaway or a longer couple's trip.

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Edinburgh than Bucharest if your budget allows for it. With a larger number of budget-friendly sights, good nightlife, and active things to do, anyone traveling on a budget would have a good time in Edinburgh.

One day in Bucharest or Edinburgh?

You'll find shopping and museums around the city of Bucharest. One day is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Bucharest has to offer. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

You'll find nightlife and live music around the quaint city of Edinburgh. Visiting the old town is also a must. Since there is so much to do in the area, one day is probably not enough for all of it. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

A weekend in Bucharest or Edinburgh?

You'll find museums and nightlife around the cultural destination of Bucharest. This is a popular place to visit for a weekend.A weekend should give you a good understanding of everything this city has to offer. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from.

You'll find live music and shopping around the vibrant destination of Edinburgh. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. This is a popular place to visit for a weekend.A weekend should give you a good understanding of everything this city has to offer. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from.

Five days in Bucharest or Edinburgh?

Travelers enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the less touristy city of Bucharest. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. Five days is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

You'll find shopping and museums around the ancient city of Edinburgh. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. If you have five days, this city makes for a great vacation. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. Five days should give you a good understanding of everything this city has to offer.

A week in Bucharest or Edinburgh?

Bucharest is a popular choice for travelers. One week is usually plenty of time to spend here with extra days to spare. With this much time, visitors often visit nearby destinations or take day trips. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

Edinburgh is a popular choice for travelers. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. One week is usually plenty of time to spend here with extra days to spare. With this much time, visitors often visit nearby destinations or take day trips. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Bucharest, The Best Family-Friendly Tours to Romania, The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Edinburgh, and The Best 10-Day Tours from London.

When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Bucharest and Edinburgh, we can see that Edinburgh is more expensive. And not only is Bucharest much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Bucharest would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Bucharest and be able to afford a more luxurious travel style by staying in nicer hotels, eating at more expensive restaurants, taking tours, and experiencing more activities. The same level of travel in Edinburgh would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Edinburgh than you might in Bucharest.

If you're trying to decide if either of these two destinations are within your price range, also see Is Bucharest Expensive? and Is Edinburgh Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Bucharest or Edinburgh?

Bucharest has a larger population, and is about 4 times larger than the population of Edinburgh. When comparing the sizes of Bucharest and Edinburgh, keep in mind that a larger population does not always imply the destination has more attractions or better activities. So, always research the type of place that you want to visit along with the activities and attractions that interest you.

When is the best time to visit Bucharest or Edinburgh?

Both places have a temperate climate with four distinct seasons. As both cities are in the northern hemisphere, summer is in July and winter is in January.

Should I visit Bucharest or Edinburgh in the Summer?

The summer brings many poeple to Bucharest as well as Edinburgh. Most visitors come to Bucharest for the city activities and the family-friendly experiences during these months. Additionally, the summer months attract visitors to Edinburgh because of the city activities, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences.

Bucharest is much warmer than Edinburgh in the summer. The daily temperature in Bucharest averages around 23°C (73°F) in July, and Edinburgh fluctuates around 14°C (58°F).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Bucharest this time of the year. In the summer, Bucharest often gets more sunshine than Edinburgh. Bucharest gets 289 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Edinburgh receives 163 hours of full sun.

Bucharest usually gets more rain in July than Edinburgh. Bucharest gets 64 mm (2.5 in) of rain, while Edinburgh receives 56 mm (2.2 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Bucharest or Edinburgh in the Autumn?

Both Edinburgh and Bucharest are popular destinations to visit in the autumn with plenty of activities. The autumn months attract visitors to Bucharest because of the city's sights and attractions and the shopping scene. Also, the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, the music scene, and the natural beauty of the area are the main draw to Edinburgh this time of year.

In the autumn, Bucharest is a little warmer than Edinburgh. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Bucharest in October average around 13°C (55°F), and Edinburgh averages at about 10°C (49°F).

Bucharest usually receives more sunshine than Edinburgh during autumn. Bucharest gets 177 hours of sunny skies, while Edinburgh receives 90 hours of full sun in the autumn.

In October, Bucharest usually receives less rain than Edinburgh. Bucharest gets 32 mm (1.3 in) of rain, while Edinburgh receives 67 mm (2.6 in) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Bucharest or Edinburgh in the Winter?

Both Edinburgh and Bucharest during the winter are popular places to visit. The museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to Bucharest this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Edinburgh for the museums, the shopping scene, the theater shows, and the cuisine.

Be prepared for some very cold days in Edinburgh. It's quite cold in Bucharest in the winter. In January, Bucharest is generally much colder than Edinburgh. Daily temperatures in Bucharest average around -1°C (29°F), and Edinburgh fluctuates around 3°C (38°F).

In the winter, Bucharest often gets more sunshine than Edinburgh. Bucharest gets 71 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Edinburgh receives 48 hours of full sun.

Bucharest usually gets less rain in January than Edinburgh. Bucharest gets 40 mm (1.6 in) of rain, while Edinburgh receives 61 mm (2.4 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Bucharest or Edinburgh in the Spring?

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both Bucharest and Edinburgh. Many travelers come to Bucharest for the activities around the city. Also, many visitors come to Edinburgh in the spring for the activities around the city and the natural beauty.

Bucharest is much warmer than Edinburgh in the spring. The daily temperature in Bucharest averages around 12°C (54°F) in April, and Edinburgh fluctuates around 7°C (45°F).

Bucharest usually receives more sunshine than Edinburgh during spring. Bucharest gets 185 hours of sunny skies, while Edinburgh receives 132 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Bucharest usually receives more rain than Edinburgh. Bucharest gets 46 mm (1.8 in) of rain, while Edinburgh receives 40 mm (1.6 in) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Edinburgh and Bucharest